Liverpool Live: Coronavirus #1

Mar 18, 2020, 11:27 AM

With the COVID-19 outbreak pushing the UK into unprecedented times, Mick Coyle speaks to various people, businesses and charities affected in the Liverpool City Region.

Michelle Langan, founder of the Paper Cup Project, talks about self-isolation and how rough sleepers are unable to do so without a home. Candice Fonseca, owner of Delifonseca Dockside, discusses losing custom as a result of the pandemic and what this means for her business. Cllr Malcolm Kennedy, former Lord Mayor of Liverpool, speaks to Mick about being quarantined in Spain and how the situation is being handled there. Writer Luke Barnes talks about setting up a GoFundMe page to help with the financial burden that COVID-19 may put on local artists in the film and theatre industry. Andrew Forsey, National Director of Feeding Britain, admits his concerns for children who could lose out on free meals if schools close down. Knowsley foodbank manager Sue Torpey joins Mick to discuss the Big Help Project, which aims to alleviate poverty and help families who can't afford to eat. She talks about how the pandemic will affect her work. Frank McKenna, Chief Executive of Downtown in Business, speaks out on the government's response to coronavirus and why the hospitality sector will suffer.

Originally broadcast 16th and 17th March 2020

Follow @MrMickCoyle, @PapercupLPL, @Delifonseca, @CllrKennedy, @LukeBarnesy, @Feeding_Britain, @BigHelpProject and @DowntownFrank.

Produced by @LewisPJennings.